Brussels, 01/12/2010 (Agence Europe) - Refugees and those enjoying international protection may be granted a long-term residence permit for the EU. On 30 November, the committee on civil liberties (LIBE) of the European Parliament supported, by 27 votes in favour, 0 against and 0 abstentions, changes to a 2003 directive on the status of third-country nationals with long-term residency, which would give refugees the same rights as long-term resident nationals of third countries, including freedom of movement and, under certain conditions, equality of treatment with citizens of the EU in a number of economic and social fields. Additionally, the new rules reinforce safeguard measures against expulsions. The legislation “will put an end to the difference in treatment from other third-country nationals”, said British rapporteur Claude Moraes (S&D). The agreement will be voted on at the plenary session in Strasbourg this December. The member states will have two years to comply with the new rules, which will cover all but the United Kingdom, Ireland and Denmark. (B.C./transl.fl)